What can I do if I see changes on my tongue?

Because you use your tongue constantly, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable when you experience tongue changes, including discoloration and soreness. There are a variety of causes for a number of common tongue symptoms.

The majority of tongue changes are not serious and can be resolved quickly. In some instances, though, a discolored or painful tongue can indicate more serious conditions, including vitamin deficiencies, AIDS, or ORAL CANCER. For this reason, it is important to seek Americas Dental Care advice if you have any ongoing problems with your tongue.

Oral Liquen Planus . A network of raised white lines on your tongue with a lace-like appearance can be a sign of this condition. Doctors often can't pinpoint its cause, but it usually gets better on its own. You can do some things that might help: Practice proper dental hygiene, avoid tobacco, and cut back on foods that irritate your mouth.

Oral Candidiasis, oral candidiasis is a yeast that develops inside the mouth. The condition results in white patches that are often cottage cheese-like in consistency on the surfaces of the mouth and tongue. Oral thrush is most commonly seen in infants and the elderly, especially denture wearers, or in people with weakened immune systems. People with diabetes and people taking steroids for asthma or lung disease can also get thrush. Oral thrush is more likely to occur after the use of antibiotics, which may kill the "good" bacteria in the mouth. Eating plain yogurt with live and active cultures may help restore the proper fauna in your mouth. Additionally, medications may be used to combat the infection.

Leukoplakia. Causes cells in the mouth to grow excessively. That, in turn, leads to the formation of white patches inside the mouth, including on the tongue. Although not dangerous on its own, leukoplakia can be a precursor to cancer. So it is important for your dentist to determine the cause of white patches on your tongue. Leukoplakia can develop when the tongue has been irritated, and it is often found in people who use tobbaco.

Call us today, or schedule and appointment, we are experts in dental care at (407) 371-3550.